Four Livestock Shelters Open in Alabama in Preparation for Hurricane Irma

With expectations of Hurricane Irma making landfall in south Florida this weekend, the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries (ADAI) has been in contact with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES), Alabama Farmers Federation (ALFA), Alabama Horse Council and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumers Services to confirm temporary sheltering facilities for evacuated livestock including horses and cattle. “Hurricane Irma, upgraded to a Category 5 storm with maximum sustained winds of 185 mph, has the capability of causing catastrophic damage. We stand ready to assist our neighbors in Florida, by providing a place for those who need shelter for their livestock,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries John McMillan.

In preparation for this storm, Alabama’s State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier has been in contact with Florida’s State Veterinarian, Dr. Michael Short, in planning for the potential evacuation of certain livestock and animals. Animals moving in response to evacuation orders will be exempt from a certificate of veterinary inspection. There are four sheltering facilities that are equipped to accommodate these animals at this time. If these facilities reach maximum capacity or if additional sheltering facilities become available, updates will be posted at www.agi.alabama.gov. These sheltering facilities are only equipped to shelter livestock, not pets or companion animals such as dogs or cats. Please contact the facility to confirm that space is available prior to your arrival.